Zinc An Essential Mineral.
Zinc is a mineral vital to all life on earth, including microscopic life. Human beings need zinc in very small quantities to support physiological functions, the reason why it is classified as an essential trace element. That being said, zinc deficiency is quite common, accounting for more than 25 per cent of the global population. The scientific community is convinced that dietary zinc contributes to the upkeep of optical cells, taste buds, olfactory receptors, and brain chemicals. Thus, deficiency in zinc results in compromised biological functions of these organs. Also, this trace element is thought to strengthen the immune system, with all sorts of health products touted to fight off colds, from supplements to lozenges, containing modest amounts of zinc.
Biological Roles of Zinc
The biological roles of zinc have been described to be ubiquitous at the cellular level. Its presence is necessitated in DNA and RNA metabolism and gene expression. It is also indispensable during the binding of extracellular signaling molecules to receptors found in the surface of cells, which is implicated in the functions of hormones, growth factors, extracellular matrix components, protein molecules, neurotransmitters, and neurotrophins. Simply put, the complete absence of zinc inside the human body is an impossible phenomenon, and low levels result in impaired health.
Zinc in Balanced Diet
Zinc is nearly as ubiquitous in medical journals and health magazines. The present day idea of a balanced diet makes sure we get enough of this dietary mineral. It is not surprising that zinc levels are quite high in populations with strong immune systems, and the opposite is also true. In fact, in individuals who are diagnosed with life-threatening illnesses, such as HIV, high levels of zinc have been noted to noticeably impact immune responses. The good news is that zinc deficiency is reversible with supplementation and consumption of healthy foods.
Zinc and the Immune System
Zinc has long been known to have immune-boosting effects, and most scientists believe that healthy levels of zinc serve as a preventive measure against infections. For one, it does play a role in the immune function in that it is an indispensable component of cell-signaling protein molecules released by many different cells in the employ of the immune system. As such, it influences immune responses. Consuming dietary zinc at the right amounts will influence its roles at the molecular level.
Zinc and the Common Colds
In recent years, zinc has been linked to the alleviation of the common colds. There have been numerous studies and published articles devoted to the effects of zinc on infections, and most of them reported very encouraging outcomes. Zinc, being a component of the immune system, appears to modulate immune responses at the right levels, which means it prepares the human body against cold infections and speeds up the processes implicated in the successful removal of viruses.
Take Zinc daily
As you can see, zinc is essential for maintaining good health and wellness. Are you getting enough zinc daily to maintain a health immune system?